A CLYDEBANK charity has received a cash boost to help make its events even more inclusive.

Golden Friendships (GF), based in Nairn Street in Dalmuir, was awarded a £15,000 grant recently from the new Virgin Money Clydebank Lasting Legacy Fund.

The money will cover the cost of upgrading the charity’s sound and lighting equipment to aid in the running of its regular events and activities.

Jim McLaren, founder and project coordinator at GF, said: “We are very grateful to Virgin Money for this wonderful gesture.

“Through our range of events and services, we try hard to help people through any hardships they are facing.

“This money will make a huge difference to our charity and the thousands of people that walk through our doors each month looking for support, a safe space, or simply someone to chat with over a cup of coffee and a bite to eat.

“We really do appreciate all the help we can get so that we can continue to be there for everyone in our community.”

Golden Friendships was set up in 2017 by Jim, a former taxi driver and local karaoke star, in an effort to help combat loneliness and isolation in the local community.

The charity supports youngsters, people with additional support needs, and disabilities, and the elderly from the town and beyond.

The Clydebank Lasting Legacy Fund was set up by Virgin Money in honour of the bank’s history with the local area as well as to help alleviate some of the financial pressures faced by not-for-profit groups and charities in the town.

Chris Taylor, head of customer transformation and operations, at Virgin Money, said: “We are incredibly proud of our long-standing history in Clydebank and aim to continue that connection and the support we provide to people across the community through our Lasting Legacy fund.

“With rising costs impacting everyone, it’s important that grassroots organisations like Golden Friendships are able to continue to deliver their essential support services.

“We’re pleased to support this fantastic organisation and the work it does to help local people across the Clydebank area.”

Each year community organisations in Clydebank can apply for grants from the fund via Foundation Scotland.

To find out more on how to get involved visit HERE.